If you’re somebody who only digs out the good tableware for large gatherings or parties, consider upgrading your everyday setup as well. While styles and price tags vary greatly from one set to the next, shopping around for the perfect tableware and flatware can be extremely rewarding. If your everyday dinnerware needs a refresh, here are some tips to help you make the best choice:
First thing’s first: you need to determine how many sets of dinnerware you’ll actually need. As it can become expensive quickly, taking the time to decide how many pieces can save you a lot of money. Don’t be tempted to “invest” in overly extensive sets with lots of extra pieces. If you can’t think of a use for them right now, you will probably not use them in your everyday life.
There are some definite advantages to buying from a trusted company. Larger companies that have been in business longer tend to have better quality assurance and safety standards for long-term usage. Many also guarantee their products, which can save you from unexpected issues or at the very least give you the peace of mind you need for a big purchase.
It’s key to learn how to take care of your dinnerware. Frequent microwave use, for example, can eventually wear down your dishes. Many dishes are not safe to wash in dishwashers, either. Clarify what you’ll need to hand wash and what you should avoid using in the microwave to help your dishes last longer.
Don’t be afraid to mix and match your dinnerware. You can successfully coordinate with the rest of your home furnishings and overall aesthetic without sticking to a single matching set for every piece. Experiment with adding in different colors, patterns and shapes for dinnerware pieces to make a set entirely unique to your needs.
Luckily, if you’re intimidated by the amount of choices available for dinnerware, trust in plain white. White dinnerware, especially made of china or porcelain, is timeless and can work with any design style. Because you don’t need to worry about matching colors and patterns, it’s easy to replace pieces or add more to the set when needed. Many designers prefer white dishes for the way they make your food look, as well—nothing brings out the colors and textures of fruits, veggies and other dishes like a plain white canvas.
Ted draws energy and joy from building synergetic relationships with his Clients. Ted's nature is graciously gregarious and persevering; he's honest; and he's been dedicated to a substantial list of clientele throughout his 25 years in the hospitality business and almost two years as a REALTOR. His passion is creating a sincere, successful relationship with people.
Ted grew up in a family of Realtors in central Indiana, earned a degree in economics and philosophy from the University of Notre Dame, and jumped into all aspects of the restaurant business. His ensuing hospitality career path eventually led him into the Event Management Sales & Service role in hotels and quickly guided him to Los Angeles, San Francisco, and finally to a luxury resort in the Napa Valley, where he, his husband, and their dog have resided for almost a decade now.
The irony is not lost on Ted that his ‘growth’ journey has culminated in“living happily ever after” in an agricultural area with a small-town feel and sense of community strikingly reminiscent of his youth…and as a REALTOR nonetheless!